PSA About Chihuahuas

So this morning, Peaches wheezing and gasping for air- I didn’t know how to stop it, and after five minutes I frantically looked it up.

Apparently, these “reverse sneezing” episodes are actually normal and common- there’s no actual medical emergency when these happen. The dog will appear to be hacking, wheezing, and gasping for air, but they are actually still able to breathe. From what I read, it’s the result of an irritation or misalignment of the soft palate, and can be caused by a variety of things- often, the episode will seem unprovoked.

Although it appears frightening, do not take your Chihuahua to the vet. It’ll only waste your money, as this is not a medical emergency.

A couple of things that will shortened the “reverse sneezing” episode that worked for me ((and are listed to work in general online)): gently rubbing the throat in circular motions, plugging the nose so the dog is forced to breathe through their mouth and regulate their breathing cycle. 

The episode will eventually pass on its own, but it’s disconcerting and alarming to see, so it’s better to just try and help it end sooner.

There’s probably posts about this and it’s common knowledge or something, but I did not know this. I was not told this when adopting my Chihuahua, and had no idea this is a normal condition. So, just in case you’re thinking of getting a Chihuahua/have a Chihuahua, make sure you’re aware of this.